Onondaga County

Before you order:

• One of the following is required to order online: email, fax machine, scanner, or smart device.
• The only people entitled to order online are the people listed on the certificate (parents or child), the legal guardian of a minor with court ordered custody, or the legal representative of one of the above.
• You must use your own card if you are using the online form. If someone else will be paying, please order by mail or fax.
• We only offer domestic shipping for online orders. Please contact us if you need international shipping.
• Orders will be processed within 7-10 business days.

To Order a Birth Certificate:

1. Complete the online request form (secure server).
2. Review the Form: Please be sure to complete the applicant and mailing address portions. Please list the child’s name and their mother’s maiden name – not married name. Please include both parents’ names if both names are known. Incomplete applications may result in processing delays.
3. Payment: Mastercard and Visa credit cards are accepted. The cardholder’s name must match the applicant’s name. The fee is $30.00 for the first certified copy and $15.00 for each additional duplicate when ordered at the same time.
4. Cover Sheet: Once “Complete Order” button is clicked, a signature verification sheet will be e-mailed to you. Please sign and date the cover sheet then return it.
   Note:  Every time you click “Complete Order” you card will be charged! If you are experiencing difficulties please contact our office at (315) 435-3241.
5. Identification: We require identification which shows your photo, signature, and mailing address. Please make sure the copy is readable, large and clear. Examples of acceptable identification include:
   • Photo driver license with signature
   • Non-driver photo license with signature
   • Passport with signature
   • Military ID with signature
   • Employer’s photo ID with signature
   • Photo social services card with signature
6. If your ID does not show your current mailing address, we can accept two (2) of the following:
   • Utility or phone bill from the past 6 months, showing your name and current address
   • Mail from a government agency from the past 6 months, showing your name and current address
7. If you cannot provide any ID or utility bills showing your current address, or if you need us to mail the certificate to a third-party, please fill out the Notarized Permission to Release Vital Records form.
   • This policy does not apply to law firms or other agencies requesting the record for legal or other official purposes.
8. Verification: Your completed cover sheet and proper ID can be faxed to (315) 435-3614, or scanned and attached to an e-mail to vsorders@ongov.net. If we do not receive verification within 5 business days, your order will be canceled. A certificate is only issued after a completed request form, signed cover sheet, proper identification, and payment are received.

Expedited Orders (Domestic Shipping Only)

• Priority Mail (USPS delivery 2-3 business days): Add $20.00
• Next Business Day (UPS delivery): Add $25.00
• All other orders are sent by USPS First-Class Mail. Certificates typically arrive within 1 – 2 weeks, but delivery may take up to 1 month.